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A feral cat has been rescued after he was spotted living under a hedge on a busy road in Saltney, but mysterious dental work revealed it once had a loving home.

Suffering from multiple conditions such as fleas and conjunctivitis, the puss was in a 'sorry state.'

Jo Nancollis, who runs Willows Way Cat Rescue in Northwich, was contacted by a local resident who spotted the cat.

By now, the feline had become well-known in the area after living under the hedge for over 12 months, getting by on scraps of food that was provided by a lady who lived nearby.

The local had contacted the RSPCA but after they did not attend, she got in touch with the Northwich rescue.

Jo has since been looking after the cat who was in a drastic condition.

She told Cheshire Live: "Parker, as I decided to call him, was terrified, he wet himself when he was caught, he was covered in fleas and ticks, ear mites so bad they caused him haematoma in his ear, which had driven him to the point of scratching some of his ear off.

"Full of cat flu and conjunctivitis, he was in a sorry state, hissing and spitting, to be honest I didn't hold out much hope of getting this lad well again."

Jo kept him in a quiet place, providing food, water and a little box.

The next day, Parker the cat allowed her to stroke him.

Jo Nancollis rescued and cared for the feline

After a visit to the vets, it was discovered that the feral feline was a neutered male who did not have a microchip.

But a shocking discovery was made when an examination revealed the cat had once had extensive dental work done.

Jo added: "This cat had lived in a home, he had received love and care in the past.

"He is well on the road to recovery now with his flu nearly gone, his ears all clear and we are awaiting blood results."

Parker the cat is now hoping to be reunited with his owners

The rescue centre in Northwich wants to raise awareness of other organisations that the public can contact if they see an animal in need.

Jo continued: "People do not have to rely on busy charities like RSPCA or cats protection. This beautiful cat suffered too long. He has a forever home here with me, where he will never have to suffer again.

"His background is unknown, where he has come from we may never know, if there is a chance his owners can be found it would be amazing to reunite but regardless he is loved more than he could ever know by all the Willows Way team and supporters."